While debate continues over the Illinois state budget, state Rep. Litesa Wallace, D-Rockford, has taken to the neighborhoods of her community to listen to the concerns of Rockford’s residents directly. "My primary duty is to represent the people of Rockford, and by walking door to door within my district, I get to hear about the local issues and stories that matter to them,” Wallace said. “It is too easy to get caught in a bubble being in Springfield or staying in my office. This type of personal engagement is important to me, and I think important for residents as well.” In addition to discussing state and local issues, Wallace will often invite residents to nearby community events she participates in, such as coffee shop stops, advisory committees and town hall meetings. Recently, Wallace has brought with her a petition asking residents to urge Gov. Bruce Rauner not to impose harsh cuts to essential services for children, seniors and low income households. The petition has gained over 800 signatures since being introduced. “Even if they’re not directly impacted by the budget negotiations, a lot of residents I talk to know some relative or friend that is,” Wallace said. “Whether they depend on the low-income energy assistance program or childcare reimbursement as they attend school, it’s important to know that these are hard-working members who contribute to our community. I want those who are affected to know that I have and will continue to fight for them in Springfield, and that our collective voice will hopefully show the governor the consequences of what he is doing.”

For more information, please contact Wallace’s full-time constituent service office at 815-987-7433 or email Litesa@StateRepWallace.com.